Most Runs in International Cricket: The Elite Top 10 List (Updated 2026)
In the world of cricket, consistency across all three formats is the true mark of greatness. Scoring runs in a single format is one thing, but dominating in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is requires incredible adaptability.
As of January 11, 2026, a major milestone was reached as Virat Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in the history of the game. However, the “Master Blaster” still sits comfortably at the top.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 34,357 Runs
Sachin Tendulkar remains the undisputed king of cricket. Over a career spanning 24 years, he set records that many believe will never be broken.
- Career Span: 1989–2013
- Key Highlight: He is the only player to score 100 international centuries. His mountain of 34,357 runs is a testament to his longevity and genius.
2. Virat Kohli (India) – 28,068 Runs
In early 2026, Virat Kohli officially moved into the second spot. Known for his aggressive chasing and supreme fitness, Kohli is the modern-day run machine.
- Career Span: 2008–Present
- Key Highlight: He is the fastest player to reach 28,000 runs, achieving the feat in significantly fewer innings than the legends before him.
3. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 28,016 Runs
The elegant left-hander from Sri Lanka was the epitome of class.
- Career Span: 2000–2015
- Key Highlight: Sangakkara held the #2 spot for nearly a decade after his retirement. His ability to anchor the innings made him a nightmare for bowlers globally.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 27,483 Runs
The most successful captain in cricket history was also a fierce batter.
- Career Span: 1995–2012
- Key Highlight: Ponting’s pull shot was legendary, and he was the backbone of the dominant Australian era that won multiple World Cups.
5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 25,957 Runs
Another Sri Lankan legend, Jayawardene was known for his silken touch and incredible centuries in high-pressure situations, including a World Cup final.
Top 10 Highest Run-Scorers (All Formats Combined)
| Rank | Player | Matches | Total Runs | Centuries |
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 664 | 34,357 | 100 |
| 2 | Virat Kohli (IND) | 535* | 28,068 | 81 |
| 3 | Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 594 | 28,016 | 63 |
| 4 | Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 560 | 27,483 | 71 |
| 5 | Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | 652 | 25,957 | 54 |
| 6 | Jacques Kallis (SA) | 519 | 25,534 | 62 |
| 7 | Rahul Dravid (IND) | 509 | 24,208 | 48 |
| 8 | Brian Lara (WI) | 430 | 22,358 | 53 |
| 9 | Joe Root (ENG) | 377* | 21,774 | 58 |
| 10 | Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) | 586 | 21,032 | 42 |
The Active Players to Watch
While the top 5 are mostly retired legends, two active players are rapidly climbing the charts in 2026:
- Virat Kohli: Having recently claimed the #2 spot, his next target is narrowing the gap with Tendulkar.
- Joe Root: England’s modern great is currently at #9. He is particularly dominant in Test cricket and is expected to climb higher in this list by the end of 2026.
Conclusion
While the game has evolved with more T20s, Sachin Tendulkar’s massive lead in total runs remains safe for now. However, Virat Kohli’s ascent to the second spot proves that modern-day greats are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Who do you think has the best chance of getting close to Sachin’s 34,357 runs? Tell us your pick in the comments below!
